Bandra’s new Japanese style Artistic cafe ‘Mokai’ is haven for anyone with a taste in Asian culinary
Designed by studio 6158 amidst sun drenched classic Bungalows of Chapel Road, Bandra, the two-storey facade of Mokai stands whimsically spreading its vibrant hues of pink, blue and white illustration inspired by Hokusai’s iconic ‘The Great Wave Off Kanagawa’.
The designers seem to have discerned the exclusivity of Bandra bungalow’s captivating roof with wooden accents as the layout retains hints of that old-world charm but the cafe is given an undeniably modern, 21st-century design as a whole.
Known for minimalist design elements, the Japanese art of impermanence wabi-sabi aesthetic is incorporated in creating a deconstructed coffee counter to the rough brushstrokes of the murals. Katsushika Hokusai’s Great Wave washes over the facade, with appropriate visual additions – large moka pots and delightful ube-pink interventions. For busy patrons, there is the addition of a charming ‘Coffee To Go’ takeaway counter, inspired by Japanese eateries.
Mokai’s interiors beautifully encapsulate the essence of Japanese minimalism. This design philosophy manifests in a seamless meld of simplicity and sophistication, perfectly aligning with the spirit of Mokai’s culinary offerings.
After spending her formative years living in China and travelling around South East Asia, Mokai’s Founder, Karreena Bulchandani aims to give Mumbaikars a taste of her adventures across those regions. Accordingly, the menu features Asian-inspired snacks, mains, desserts and baked treats, paired with an extensive range of coffee, matcha and other beverage options.
The space exudes earthly vibes, with wooden walls and soft, curved edges that ease the ambiance, encouraging guests to relax and indulge. A palette of muted terra browns enhances the café’s focus on coffee.
Every detail is carefully considered, and then contrasted with bold interjections of maximalist Harajuku aesthetics that echo Tokyo’s dynamic street culture, alongside elements of Indian and Japanese art, and ube-pink accents throughout.
The walls are adorned with elements reminiscent of the Japanese “Sashiko” and the Indian “Kantha” — both intricate forms of embroidery — adding layers of cultural texture. These are intertwined with Asian ephemera, including stamps, seals, cartographical symbols, and concealed motifs, crafting a distinct graphic narrative that echoes through Mokai’s packaging.
Hanko is the noteworthy element – a personal seal that is traditionally used interchangeably with a hand-written signature in Japan. Mokai’s own hanko, ingeniously designed to mirror a moka pot, incorporates the letters “M-O-K-A-I” in an abstract fashion, embodying the café’s identity within the seal.
Handcrafted origami birds float over the staircase, a poetic nod to themes of migration and cultural exchange. Beyond, lies the M-O-K-A-I hanko.
Follow us on Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn and don’t miss out on the latest updates from the Indian Art & Craft Industry!